Man City thrash 10-man Liverpool 3-0
By Tosin Omojola
Manchester City returned to action after being found guilty of breaching Premier League financial regulations with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield.
Enzo Maresca’s side restored their three-point lead at the top of the table with a commanding performance, though uncertainty remains as they await sanctions that could include expulsion from the Premier League, relegation or a record points deduction.
Liverpool fans repeatedly branded City cheats before and during the match, but the visitors who have appealed the independent commission’s verdict responded calmly before exploiting Liverpool’s weaknesses, particularly after the hosts were reduced to 10 men.
The match began in a hostile atmosphere, with the Kop taunting City over the verdict. Banners reading “A Generation Of Supporters Cheated” were unfurled, while City fans backed the club’s leadership with a flag stating, “In Khaldoon We Trust”.
After the initial hostility subsided, the first half was largely uneventful. City slowed the tempo to contain the atmosphere, while Liverpool struggled to create clear chances.
The second half brought more action, with City’s goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma making quick saves to deny Victor Munoz and Gravenberch. Haaland also missed an earlier opportunity, rolling wide after breaking through on goal.
Liverpool’s task became harder when Gravenberch received a second yellow card for fouling Doku. City then raised the tempo and capitalised on their numerical advantage.
Haaland opened the scoring with a thunderous finish in the 65th minute, and substitute Jeremy Doku doubled the lead three minutes later with a stunning strike into the top corner. Rayan Cherki completed the rout 12 minutes from time, sealing a comprehensive victory.
